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The renowned publisher has secured a seasoned producer from the creators of Apex Legends to oversee the studio crew at their internal studio, which is currently crafting the forthcoming over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as this innovative game.

Leadership Change Comes After Lukewarm Reception

Brinkman assumes the leadership position at 31st Union following the departure of former leader Michael Condrey, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' disappointing unveiling last autumn.

Recently, the company's top executive David Ismailer informed team members about this organizational change through an internal memo, which emphasized that playtesting had shown the requirement for a clearer game identity.

The president noted that the developers is now reimagining the project with a revised approach, aiming to address gamer demands.

A Pattern of Strategic Hires

The news mirrors a comparable action taken by the publisher in the summer, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the BioShock studio Cloud Chamber.

Here is the entire message from Ismailer's memo:

Team—

I know you all just wrapped up your meeting - I hope you’re as enthusiastic as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a note, I stated the following: “I believe in this team. You all are some of the most motivated and talented creators we have had the chance to partner with - and we’re eager for that partnership to endure.”

Through your commitment and versatility, particularly over the past twelve months, you continue to prove that.

The community feedback from last autumn’s the game testing phase was informative. It affirmed the appeal of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had refinements needed. It uncovered the need for a more distinct identity.

It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve progressed. You accepted the feedback to consideration and revamped Project ETHOS with a renewed goal - one that’s ready to achieve its promise to our audience.

The trust in Project ETHOS strengthens every day. To further the outstanding development you’ve made, I am thrilled to announce Ben Brinkman as the incoming Lead of 31st Union. Following a period of conversations, Ben comes aboard us on next week.

His management and background in the PVP shooter space is considerable, having devoted the recent years developing and managing some of the most well-known series in gaming, for example Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, the battle royale hit.

Please join me in greeting him soon. We are all looking forward to persist witnessing the evolution of Project ETHOS in the weeks to come.

David

Background of the Incoming Head

The appointee currently serves in the position of senior developer and head of production at the renowned studio for their flagship title. He previously worked at major gaming companies in various development positions on the Call of Duty games, and, before that, had assignments at other industry leaders.

Title Details and Vision

The upcoming game was announced in October 2024 alongside a community playtest. Then, the developers described the title as a "free-to-play, third-person perspective action-packed experience and an innovative advancement on the genre."

"Build your perfect run—or die trying—in this 3rd-person action shooter! Customize your character in live gameplay to fit your unique tactics," the description states. "Challenge the competition with new abilities, stakes, and tests that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Alternatively take a risk, gamble everything, and hope your squad can achieve the highest spot? The option is yours."

The game lacks an official debut schedule or consoles, but enthusiasts can look forward to further news as development continues.